Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Dez Bryant's COVID-19 experience has led to the NFL making some changes. Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

NFL creates new rule after Dez Bryant COVID-19 incident

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 12/16/20

The NFL has a new rule when it comes to COVID-19.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the NFL informed clubs on Wednesday that teams may activate a new player up to 30 minutes before kickoff in a certain circumstance related to the coronavirus.

Here’s the full language from today’s memo. Inactives are due 90 minutes before kickoff. In the case of Dez, his inconclusive test result and subsequent rapid-result positive came after the deadline, so #Ravens played a man down. In the future, they could activate someone else. pic.twitter.com/pjRxklWst5
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 16, 2020

The news comes after Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Dez Bryant tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the team's matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. He was pulled from the contest just 30 minutes before kickoff.

The former Cowboys wide receiver was looking forward to facing off against his old club, but was robbed of the opportunity.

In the days following the positive test, Bryant announced via Twitter that he tested negative multiple times, acknowledging that he was confused by the whole situation. However, the Ravens left him on the reserve/COVID list for five days.

Bryant was activated off the list on Tuesday and will be eligible for the Ravens matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars this weekend. In three games this season, he has four receptions for 28 yards.

More must-reads: